Understanding flat feet
A flat or low arched foot describes a foot posture where the arch sits closer to the ground, particularly under load. It can be flexible, where the arch appears when you stand on tiptoe, or rigid, where it does not.
What matters clinically is how the foot functions and whether it can control load. A well functioning flat foot needs no treatment. A poorly controlled one can contribute to problems in the foot, knee, hip and back.
Signs you might notice
- Arch aching after standing or walking for long periods
- The inside of the shoe wearing down quickly
- Ankle rolling inwards noticeably when you walk
- Knee, hip or back symptoms that vary with footwear
- Fatigue in the feet rather than sharp pain
Common contributing factors
- Inherited foot structure
- Reduced strength in the foot and lower limb
- Changes in tendon function, particularly tibialis posterior
- Weight and activity changes over time
- Joint hypermobility
How we assess and treat it
We assess whether your arch is flexible or rigid, how well you control it dynamically, and what happens further up the chain. Pressure mapping shows the loading consequences, and where the picture is unclear the DIERS 4D scan shows how your pelvis and spine respond as you walk.
If your flat feet are not causing symptoms, we will tell you so rather than treat something that does not need treating.
- Strength work for the foot, ankle and hip
- Gait retraining to improve control under load
- Orthotic support where it changes symptoms meaningfully
- Footwear advice for work and sport
- Whole body assessment when symptoms appear higher up
Common questions
Do flat feet always need orthotics?
No, and this is one of the most over prescribed interventions in podiatry. Orthotics help when they change your symptoms. If strength and gait work achieve the same thing, that is the better long term answer.
Can flat feet cause back pain?
They can contribute, because how you load the ground influences everything above it. Our 4D scan is particularly useful for seeing whether that link is real in your case.
Are flat feet in children a concern?
Usually not, as arches often develop with time. Persistent pain, one sided flattening or difficulty keeping up with peers is worth assessing.